*Day 1*

*Jonah 1:4-5*

Suffering in our lives does not happen by accident. God hurled the great storm so that the ship would be emptied of its cargo. He shakes our false refuges to strip away what we cling to, showing mercy so that we will finally look to Him.

_Question:_ What security is God asking you to empty out today?

*Day 2*

*Jonah 1:6*

While Jonah slept in spiritual apathy, a pagan captain woke him using the exact command God had given earlier. God often speaks indirectly through unexpected people or circumstances to expose what we try to hide. When the truth pricks your conscience, treat it as grace rather than getting angry.

_Question:_ Is God speaking an uncomfortable truth to you through someone?

*Day 3*

*Jonah 1:7*

The sailors cast lots to discover who brought the calamity, and God caused the lot to fall on Jonah. What people view as coincidence or luck is often God's sovereign necessity. He arranges circumstances to help us recognize His hand so we stop running.

_Question:_ Where can you see God's providence directing your circumstances?

*Day 4*

*Jonah 1:8-9*

The sailors asked Jonah who he was and where he came from. Jonah gave an orthodox theological confession, yet his life was moving in the opposite direction. In times of crisis, God asks who you are so that your daily walk matches what you profess.

_Question:_ Does the way you live each day match who you say God is?

*Day 5*

*Jonah 1:17*

Even when Jonah chose to be thrown into the sea, God provided a huge fish to swallow him. The same God who sends the storm also prepares the fish for our deliverance. His relentless grace never gives up on us, leading us all the way to the cross.

_Question:_ How does God's promise of mercy give you peace in your storm?

N.E.W. Seminary